What is a Calcaneal (heel bone) fracture?
The calcaneus is the formal name for the heel bone of the foot. The calcaneus along with the talus (the bone directly above it) form the subtalar joint which is an important joint for proper foot function.
Causes and Symptoms
A fracture of the calcaneus can occur from trauma, such as a fall from a height, motor vehicle accident and less commonly a stress fracture. Common symptoms include:
- Heel pain
- Difficulty walking
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Blisters
Treatment
Treatment of calcaneal fractures depends on the severity and location of the fracture.
Non-surgical Treatments
- Splint/Cast Immobilization- the foot will be immobilized in order to allow the foot bone to heal.
- Icing/Elevation- helps reduce swelling
Surgical Treatments
- Severe fractures and those causing joint collapse often require surgical repair. This usually involves the use of plates and screws to realign the joint and fracture fragments.
- Splint/Cast Immobilization- in order to allow the bone fragments to heal.
Atlantic Joint Center Locations
Advanced Spine Surgery Center
855 Lehigh Ave. Union, NJ 07083
Edison
2163 Oak Tree Rd, Suite 110, Edison, NJ 08820
Englewood
25 Rockwood Avenue Suite #355, Englewood, NJ 07661
Jersey City
200 Hudson St., Suite 145 Harborside, Jersey City, NJ, 07302
Park Avenue
1045 Park Ave., New York, NY 10028
West Orange
475 Prospect Ave., Ste. 110, West Orange, NJ 07052